Kingston UNISON Branch
Your friend at work
OPEN 9:00am to 5:00pm Mon – Fri
Why Join UNISON
1. You earn more
Year on year, UNISON wins pay rises for its members.Average earnings are around 8 per cent higher in unionised workplaces. Every year UNISON will help negotiate the local pay award
2. You’re more likely to get equal pay
UNISON continues to campaign to bring women’s pay into line with men’s. Workplaces with union recognition are 20 per cent more likely to have an equal opportunities policy.
3. You get more holiday
UNISON has won increased leave for many of its members wherever they work. The average trade union member in the UK gets 25% more annual leave than those not in a union.
4. You get more and better training
UNISON provides courses to help you learn new skills, improve existing ones and develop your career.
5. You get more maternity leave or parental leave
If you belong to UNISON, your employer is more likely to have parental leave policies which are more generous than the statutory minimum.
6. You’re less likely to be injured at work
UNISON health and safety stewards are trained to minimise the risk of workplace injuries and ensure that employers meet their legal obligations. UNISON will contribute significantly to Kingston local government’s employment policies and practices.
7. If you do get injured at work, you’ll get better compensation
UNISON wins millions in legal compensation for people who are injured or become ill at work. We won over £37 million in 2004 for members and their families.
8. You’re less likely to be discriminated against
Black and Asian trade unionists earn 32 per cent more than non-unionised colleagues. UNISON campaigns for tougher laws to make it illegal to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, disability or sexual orientation.
9. You can help our campaign for world class public services
We seek equivalent pay and employment rights for all our members working in the private and voluntary sectors. But in addition we try to ensure resources and support are in place to help our members do their job to a world class standard.
10. You’re less likely to be sacked
Trade union members are only half as likely to be sacked as non members. A UNISON official will represent you if you are subject to disciplinary procedures.
UNISON – Recognising challenges
UNISON supports members in improving conditions at work, in disciplinary cases and to prevent bullying at work among other things. UNISON has more locally elected workplace stewards in Kingston local government than any other union, supported by the full time branch and regional office.
UNISON – Recognising changing times
Staff working in Kingston local government, may face many changes arising from restructuring, working practices and redundancies. It is especially important at times like these that a strong trade union is in place to help protect employment, and improve terms and conditions.
UNISON – Organising in your workplace
Getting to know your work place, the culture and practices (the do’s and don’ts) – can sometimes be a bit confusing. That is why it is good to have someone to talk to, who can provide assistance and access to representation where needed. UNISON has a good record of success in resolving problems for its members.
Our strength is in having local stewards, H&S representatives, and other active work-based members elected by you, to support you in your job.
UNISON and you
If you feel that you have not been treated fairly, or are facing difficulties with your employer, you can ask the union for help. Ring us on 020 8547 5166 or 0845 355 0845* and e will put you in touch with a UNISON workplace representative. Our local reps draw on the expertise and support of the whole union and will work with you to find a solution. You can also visit our website www.unison.org.uk
Your friend for life
When you join UNISON you are also entitled to special deals on holidays, insurance, financial services and savings plans. We also offer a UNISON credit card and a vehicle breakdown service. UNISON Welfare, our own registered charity, provides support for UNISON members and their dependents in difficult times.
Get involved
If we work together, our collective strength as UNISON members means we can try to improve things in your workplace. If you have ideas about how to make work a better place – from better lighting in the car park to more flexible working hours – UNISON gives you a voice and can also provide training and support. You’ll be surprised what difference you can make.